Articles
Author: Gerrit De Geest
Phrasing the question is one of the most delicate points of a referendum. A first problem is to choose the most important alternatives. Several procedures to select these alternatives and to avoid some kinds of manipulation, exist. There are a lot of arguments for the voting on principles, but also a lot against.
The Swiss criterion for «unity of matter» (to avoid two items in one question) is not workable; a new criterion is proposed. The danger of suggestivity (caused by loaded words, by arguments in the question, or by a failure of communication) is real. Rules to prevent these dangers are discussed. Finally, some remarks are made on the problem «who decides on the question ?». A neutral commission is wishful.
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How to Cite: De Geest, G. (1986) “De vraagstelling bij een referendum”, Res Publica. 28(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/rp.v28i1.19189